Does anyone have a guide for self employed people or small businesses that explains the ins and outs to taxes so you can reduce tax liability, but also get access to loans from banks?

Also, start on the "Ultimate Beginner's Guide" on biggerpockets.com.

Use the numbers as guides so you don't have to worry about being emotional about a purchase. 

Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.

And Scott taught me that I CAN have my tenants pay my mortgage.I did learn some good, guiding principles from reality tv. 

I would like to think that I could be valuable in house to companies that are redefining spaces where I could assess the mechanical needs for the reconfigured space(s). 

Yes I think its a good guide for you and @Kyle M. is 100% correct in what he states. 

Yeah, I don't have a 1% payment every month.. but valuable lessons in your scenario for sure.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.